Retractable Stabilizer and Method of Use

ABSTRACT

An apparatus and method for use of an improved shoring system for providing stabilization and protection for fences particularly in high wind situations such as severe thunderstorms and hurricanes. The structure of the shoring system provides rigidity and security to a fence and acts to prevent or minimize the chances of destroyed, lost, or tipped-over fencing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND

The present invention generally relates to an improved retractable fence stabilizer and method of use.

The present invention is distinguished over the following prior art:

Patent EP0359704 does not appear to be an adjustable fence support. The present invention is used for stabilizing fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,703,189 is used for supporting wire such as barb wire, strands of wire to prevent climbing over line of fencing or intrusion. The present invention is primarily used to support fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,574,981 is primarily used by carpenters when erecting vertical walls by using two pipes connected with a turnbuckle. One end of the pipe uses a hinged wall anchor, and the other end of the pipe uses a hinged floor anchor at the other end. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,481,836 is used for supporting a wall such as a masonry wall when building large warehouse walls for example. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,570 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a metal vertical channel with adjustable tubing attached to a footing that is designed to help hold up damaged building structures. The present invention is mostly used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

Patent US2005/0072059 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is used when a wall is being fabricated from masonry blocks. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

Patent EP1662048B1 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a ground anchoring system and does not retract and deploy telescopically like the present invention. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,727,712 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a bracket or brace used for shoring purposes when building concrete forms. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,817,006 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is used for supporting masonry walls during construction. The present invention is primarily used for fences that is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,135 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is used for supporting a different type of fencing that is netted or a rope divider that has an unrelated function compared to the present invention, build, and application. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,377,020B1 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a wire that is wrapped around a post, tightened with a strainer and overall mounts to post differently. The present invention is primarily used for fences that is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

Patent US2005/0161571A1 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a shoring post that is designed to hold something up horizontally above it and not a vertical structure like a wooden fence. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

Patent EP2450488A2 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a mast for indoor and outdoor spaces to serve as a temporary boundary pole or barrier used with ropes or bands to provide a free area away from people and traffic. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,832,559 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a brace for construction of a concrete building when placing vertical concrete wall slab. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,070,833 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is used for bracing when building a wall made of materials such as masonry blocks. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,849,849B2 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is a frame that is used to mount solar panels on flat roofs. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,134,897 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it uses a cement base attached to the support and is particularly used for corner posts in fencing. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,171,627 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is used for bracing of walls, roofs, decks, ship hulls, or bulkheads and is anchored to the ground and to the above surface of the item being braced. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,492,358 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it provides support in the form of a truss utilized for pouring of concrete floors. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,409,412B1 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is an adjustable locking and unlocking structure for a telescopic tube and therefore is just a component and not a complete shoring system. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,194,090B2 is different from the present invention's design, build, and application because it is a portable windbreak device and not a shoring system. The present invention is primarily used for fences and is fully retractable when not in use and is easily deployed when put in service.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments of the present invention, the present invention is an improved retractable fence stabilizer.

In several embodiments, the present invention comprises a novel design and method of providing stabilization for fencing to prevent or minimize damage caused by high wind situations such as severe thunderstorms or hurricanes.

The retractable fence stabilizer is designed to allow for ease of mounting, setup, and storage. The retractable fence stabilizer is also designed to provide for customizability to provide use applications in a variety of positions. In several embodiments, the retractable fence stabilizer is preferably mounted to a wooden fence through flanges at both ends of a first support member wherein at least two other support members are joined to the first support member to allow for selective extension and collapsing of the retractable fence stabilizer. It is designed to allow for the retractable fence stabilizer to be collapsible to reduce the footprint, size, or overhang when it is installed to a fence or placed in storage when not installed to a fence. It is designed to allow for collapsing or retraction of the support members that selectively extend away from the fence to provide better aesthetics when there is not an impending weather event and to further prevent tripping hazards or obstacles which could impact mowing or landscape activities or playing children in the yard. It is further designed to allow for quick extension and securing of the support members while the retractable fence stabilizer is installed to a fence to provide stabilization of the fence in the event of an incoming weather event, such as a severe thunderstorm, windstorm, or hurricane.

The retractable fence stabilizer may include a vertical support member comprising a length and one or more flanges disposed along the length of the vertical support member; an intermediate support member comprising a length and one or more flanges disposed along the length of the intermediate support member; a bottom support member comprising a length and one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member; and a base pad; wherein, the bottom support member is joined to the vertical support member via a first flange affixed to the vertical support member and the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the vertical support member via a second flange affixed to the vertical support member along the length and the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the bottom support member to form a joint via one or more flanges affixed to the intermediate support member and one or more flanges affixed to the bottom support member; wherein, the base pad is affixed to the joint formed by the intermediate support member and bottom support member. The second flange affixed to the vertical support member is disposed along the length of the vertical support member in a superior position to the first flange.

The one or more flanges disposed along the length of the vertical support member may be secured or affixed to a fence, wooden fence, a fence post, or other rigid post or member.

The retractable fence stabilizer for mounting to a fence for reducing the likelihood of falling over due to a wind event may include a vertical support member comprising a length, a first end, and a second end; an intermediate support member comprising a length, a first end, and a second end; a bottom support member comprising a length, a first end, and a second end; and a base pad; wherein, the vertical support member is secured to a fence via a top flange affixed to the first end of the vertical support member and a bottom flange affixed to the second end of the vertical support member; wherein, the bottom support member is joined to the vertical support member proximate to the second end of the vertical support member via a moveable flange, wherein the moveable flange is further joined to bottom support member via a flange disposed at the first end of the bottom support member, wherein the moveable flange and the flange form a hinged joint; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the vertical support member proximate to the first end of the vertical support member via a second moveable flange, wherein the second moveable flange is further joined to intermediate support member via a second flange disposed at the first end of the intermediate support member, wherein the second moveable flange and the second flange form a second hinged joint; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the bottom support member to form a third hinged joint at the second end of intermediate support member and the second end of the bottom support member; and wherein, the base pad is moveably joined to the third hinged joint.

The retractable fence stabilizer may include an extended position wherein the first hinged joint is disposed in a position proximate to the second end of the vertical support member and wherein the base pad is secured to a surface.

The retractable fence stabilizer may also include a collapsed position wherein the second hinged joint is disposed in a position proximate to the first end of the vertical support member and further wherein the first hinged joint is disposed in a position closer to the first end of the vertical support member than the second end of the vertical support member.

The retractable fence stabilizer may also include one or more attachments to secure the base pad to a surface. The attachment points may be spikes or stakes or other device or material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions to be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings describing specific embodiments of the disclosure, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in an assembled and extended position.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in an assembled and collapsed or storage position.

FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a detailed exploded view of a top flange joint.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a detailed exploded view of an intermediate sliding joint.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a detailed exploded view of a bottom flange joint.

FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of a base pad.

FIG. 7A illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of a base pad.

FIG. 7B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of a base pad.

FIG. 7C illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of a base pad.

FIG. 8A illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of joining two member sections.

FIG. 8B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of joining two member sections.

FIG. 8C illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention in a detailed view of joining two member sections.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more illustrative embodiments incorporating the invention disclosed herein are presented below. Applicant has created a revolutionary and improved retractable fence stabilizer and method of use.

In the following description, certain details are set forth such as specific quantities, sizes, etc. to provide a thorough understanding of the present embodiments disclosed herein. However, it will be evident to those of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without such specific details. In many cases, details concerning such considerations and the like have been omitted because such details are not necessary to obtain a complete understanding of the present disclosure and are within the skills of persons of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

Referring to the drawings in general, it will be understood that the illustrations are for the purpose of describing embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to be limiting thereto. Drawings are not necessarily to scale, and arrangements of specific units in the drawings can vary.

While most of the terms used herein will be recognizable to those of ordinary skill in the art, it should be understood, however, that when not explicitly defined, terms should be interpreted as adopting a meaning presently accepted by those of ordinary skill in the art. In cases where the construction of a term would render it meaningless, or essentially meaningless, the definition should be taken from Webster's Dictionary 2020, 11^(th) Edition. Definitions and/or interpretations should not be incorporated from other patent applications, patents, or publications, related or not, unless specifically stated in this specification, or if the incorporation is necessary for maintaining validity. As utilized herein, the following terms have the following definitions.

While preferred embodiments have been shown, and described, modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or teaching herein. The embodiments described herein are exemplary only and are not limiting. Many variations and modifications of the system and apparatus are possible and will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. For example, the relative dimensions of various parts, the materials from which the various parts are made, and other parameters can be varied.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in an assembled and erected position. In several embodiments of the invention, the improved retractable fence stabilizer 100 comprises a vertical support member 10, intermediate support member 40, bottom support member 50. The three support members 10, 40, and 50 form a triangular shape when in an assembled and erected position. Each of the three support members 10, 40, and 50 can be formed from various types of metal, plastics, polymers, wood, or other rigid members. Further, it should be appreciated that the three support members do not have to be cylindrical, such as metal pipe, but may comprise other shapes or configurations, such as bars or I-beams or rails, achieving the same result of providing a retractable fence stabilizer. Vertical support member 10 is adjoined to a surface, preferably a fence post, via top flange 15 and bottom flange 130. Moveably situated between the top flange 15 and bottom flange 130 is intermediate sliding joint 20. Intermediate sliding joint 20 is preferably a flange that encompasses the exterior surface of the vertical support member 10 to allow travel along the vertical axis formed by the vertical support member 10. Further situated between bottom flange 130 and intermediate sliding joint 20 along the length of vertical support member 10 is bottom sliding joint 30. Intermediate support member 40 is adjoined to vertical support member 10 via a jointed connection of intermediate sliding joint 20 situated on the vertical support member 10 and flange 25 affixed to one end of intermediate support member 40. The opposite end of intermediate support member 40 is terminated with flange 55. Likewise, bottom support member 50 is adjoined to vertical support member 10 via bottom sliding joint 30 to allow travel along the vertical axis formed by the vertical support member 10. Bottom support member 50 is adjoined to vertical support member 10 via a jointed connection of bottom sliding joint 30 situated on the vertical support member 10 and flange 35 affixed to one end of bottom support member 50. The opposite end of bottom support member 50 is terminated with flange 60. Flange 60 comprises a jointed connection with flange 61 wherein flange 61 can be secured or moveably situated between flange 25 and flange 55 of the intermediate support member 40 to allow for adjustment of the shape, height, or length of the erected or collapsed retractable fence stabilizer. Further, flange 61 is preferrable a flange that encompasses the exterior surface of intermediate support member 40 to allow travel along an axis formed by the intermediate support member 40. Flange 55 joins intermediate support member 40 to base pad 75.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in a collapsed or stored position. When a user desires to store or collapse the retractable fence stabilizer, such as at the end of a storm season or for a forecast of favorable weather, the retractable fence stabilizer 100 can readily be collapsed and stored while using minimal space and tools to achieve this position. As illustrated, the moveable sliding joints 20 and 30 travel along vertical support member 10 from their original positions as shown in previous FIG. 1 to a position closer to top flange 15. Likewise, the travel of sliding joints 20 and 30 cause the intermediate support member 40 and bottom support member 50 to travel and collapse the triangle previously formed in the erected position shown in FIG. 1 to a collapsed position as shown in FIG. 2 . Further, base pad 75 also travels as the retractable fence stabilizer 100 is converted from an erected position to a collapsed position. Due to the axis of travel for the sliding joints 20 and 30, base pad 75 approaches bottom flange 130 when the retractable fence stabilizer is converted to the collapsed position as shown in FIG. 2 . It should be appreciated that the sliding joints 20 and 30 can be loosened or tightened by a set screw that engages the member upon which the sliding joints move. It should be further appreciated that other securing methods to lock or secure sliding joints 20 and 30 may be implemented to achieve the same results.

FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of top flange 15 and connection to vertical support member 10. Top flange 15 comprises an offset flange for insertion of one end of vertical support member 10. Top flange 15 preferably further comprises mounting hole 13, offset tab 14, washer 16, mounting screw 17, set screw 18, and set screw hole 19. Offset tab 14 preferably is affixed to a secure fence post or portion of the fence that can provide a rigid attachment point. Securing of top flange 15 via offset tab 14 to a secure fence post can be achieved through use of mounting screw 17 and washer 16 through mounting hole 13. Top flange 15 is preferably affixed and secured to vertical support member 10 through use of set screw 18 being inserted and tightened through set screw hole 19 wherein set screw 18 engages a surface of vertical support member 10. It should be appreciated that other methods of securing the top flange 15 to the vertical support member 10 can be performed, such as press fit, threads, glue, or other securing methods.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of the moveable sliding joint 20 and flange 25. As shown in FIG. 4 , vertical support member 10 allows for intermediate sliding joint 20 to travel along the length of vertical support member 10. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 4 , intermediate sliding joint 20 allows for vertical support member 10 in the form of a pipe to be inserted into a hole formed through intermediate sliding joint 20 so that the joint 20 is capable of travel along a surface of vertical support member 10. Intermediate sliding joint 20 preferably comprises a set screw 21, set screw hole 22, and joint fixture 23. Intermediate sliding joint 20 is preferably affixed and secured to vertical support member 10 through use of set screw 21 being inserted and tightened through set screw hole 22 wherein set screw 21 engages a surface of vertical support member 10. When set screw 21 is tightened it secures intermediate sliding joint 20 at a desired position along vertical support member 10. Conversely, when set screw 21 is loosened it allows intermediate sliding joint 20 to travel along vertical support member 10 thus allowing the erection or collapsing of the retractable fence stabilizer. Once a desired position for intermediate sliding joint 20 is achieved, then set screw 21 may be tightened to secure moveable sliding joint 20 to the desired position along vertical support member 10. Further, intermediate sliding joint 20 preferably comprises a joint fixture 23 to matingly engage joint fixture 24 of flange 25. Flange 25 preferably comprises a hole formed on a surface of flange 25 for insertion of one end of intermediate support member 40. As shown in FIG. 4 , flange 25 further comprises set screw 28 and set screw hole 29 to securely fasten intermediate support member 40 to flange 25. It should be appreciated that other manners of affixing intermediate support member 40 may be achieved and would be known to persons of ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, intermediate support member 40 may be formed with joint fixture 24 without the need to add a flange. As shown in FIG. 4 , intermediate sliding joint 20 and flange 25 are preferably joined via joint fixtures 23 and 24 in a mating engagement and secured via bolt 26, washer 27, washer 127, and nut 126.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of the bottom flange 130 and bottom sliding joint 30 and connection to vertical support member 10. Bottom flange 130 comprises an offset flange for insertion of one end of vertical support member 10. Bottom flange 130 preferably further comprises an offset tab 134, mounting hole 133, washer 136, mounting screw 137, set screw 138, and set screw hole 139. Offset tab 134 preferably is affixed to a secure fence post or portion of the fence that can provide a rigid attachment point. Securing of bottom flange 130 via offset tab 134 to a secure fence post can be achieved through use of mounting screw 137 and washer 136 through mounting hole 133. Bottom flange 130 is preferably affixed and secured to vertical support member 10 through use of set screw 138 being inserted and tightened through set screw hole 139 wherein set screw 138 engages a surface of vertical support member 10. It should be appreciated that other methods of securing the bottom flange 130 to the vertical support member 10 can be performed, such as press fit, threads, glue, or other securing means. 1581 FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of the bottom foot joint. The bottom foot joint comprises flange 55, flange 60, and flange 61, wherein flange 55 is affixed to a terminating end of intermediate support member 40 and flange 60 is affixed to a terminating end of bottom support member 50. Flange 61 is affixed to intermediate support member 40 at a position along the member and before the terminating end of the member and flange 55. The bottom foot joint further comprises base pad 75 which is joined to flange 55 via a joint fixture in a mating engagement to allow the base pad 75 to move along one or more axes in relation to intermediate support member 40 or bottom support member 50. Base pad 75 is preferably joined to support base 65 and can be affixed to support base 65 via bolt 76, nut 77, and washer 78. It should be appreciated that other manners of joining base pad 75 or support base 65 to flange 55 can be performed to achieve the same or similar functionality and result for providing a stabilizing base or foot to contact ground or other surface to which base pad 75 or support base 65 can be secured. It should be appreciated that support base 65 and base pad 75 can be comprised of a single component or multiple components to achieve the same result. The embodiments described and depicted herein are simply the preferred embodiments.

FIG. 7A illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of an alternative bottom foot joint. As described above with respect to FIG. 6 , the bottom foot joint comprises flange 55, flange 60, and flange 61, support base 65, and base pad 75. The depicted embodiment includes one or more spikes 81 that preferably penetrate a ground surface or other surface to provide additional stabilization for the retractable fence stabilizer and prevent lateral movement of support base 65 or base pad 75 in relation to the ground surface or other surface. Securing of the support base 65 or base pad 75 to a ground surface or other surface helps to prevent lateral movement, which otherwise could cause warping, shearing, or other damage to the retractable fence stabilizer or its components. It should be appreciated that alternative designs of the one or more spikes, support base, or base pad can include one or more smooth spikes, barbed spikes, auger spikes, threaded spikes, or other designs for ground anchoring.

FIG. 7B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of an alternative bottom foot joint wherein support base 65 allows for the use of stakes 82 to be secured through or to the support base 65 into or on a ground surface or other surface to prevent lateral movement of the support base 65.

FIG. 7C illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention with a detailed view of an alternative bottom foot joint wherein support base 65 comprises one or more spikes 81 in combination with stakes 82 to be secured through or to the support base 65 into or on a ground surface or other surface to prevent lateral movement of the support base 65, as shown individually in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C illustrate alternative embodiments of the present invention with several detailed views of forming a support member by connecting or joining two member sections. The support members comprising the retractable fence stabilizer can alternatively be comprised of two or more sections to provide additional length or customizability to the length of the members.

As depicted in FIG. 8A, first member section 140 can be joined to second member section 141 by inserting one end of first member section 140 into a receiving end of second member section 141. The first member section 140 is secured in a position with second member section 141 via set screw 142 which is inserted through a surface of the second support member 141 and engaging with a surface of the first support member 140. Set screw 142 can be tightened to secure the member sections together or loosened to collapse or extend the member sections in relation to each other.

An alternative embodiment is shown in FIG. 8B wherein an end of first member section 143 can be inserted into a receiving end of second member section 145. First member section 143 further comprises push button spring clip which engages with one or more receiving holes formed on a surface of second member section 145. The first member section 143 can be secured in a position in relation to second member section 145 by engagement of the push button spring clip 144 through one of the one or more receiving holes formed on the surface of the second member section 145. The length of the joined member sections can be extended or collapsed by pressing the push button spring clip inward so that it sufficiently disengages from a receiving hole formed on the surface of the second member section 145.

A further alternative embodiment is shown in FIG. 8C wherein at least a portion of first member section 146 comprises one or more holes formed on a surface of first member and may extend all the way through the first member. The second member section 147 further comprises one or more holes. The first member section 146 can be secured in a position in relation to second member section 147 by engagement of a cotter pin 148 or other device that extends through one or more holes of the second member section 147 and one or more holes of the first member section 146. The length of the joined member sections can be extended or collapsed by removing the cotter pin 148 or other device so that it disengages from holes formed on the surfaces of the first and second member sections.

While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or teaching herein. The embodiments described herein are exemplary only and are not limiting. Many variations and modifications of the system and apparatus are possible and will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. For example, the relative dimensions of various parts, the materials from which the various parts are made, and other parameters can be varied. Accordingly, it is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such variations and modifications. 

What is claimed is the following:
 1. A retractable fence stabilizer comprising: a vertical support member comprising a length and one or more flanges disposed along the length of the vertical support member; an intermediate support member comprising a length and one or more flanges disposed along the length of the intermediate support member; a bottom support member comprising a length and one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member; a base pad; wherein, the bottom support member is joined to the vertical support member via a first flange affixed to the vertical support member and the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the vertical support member via a second flange affixed to the vertical support member along the length and the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the bottom support member to form a joint via one or more flanges affixed to the intermediate support member and one or more flanges affixed to the bottom support member; wherein, the base pad is affixed to the joint formed by the intermediate support member and bottom support member.
 2. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 1, wherein the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the vertical support member comprise two flanges, wherein the two flanges are disposed at a termination point of the length of the vertical support member.
 3. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 2, wherein the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the intermediate support member comprise two flanges, wherein the two flanges are disposed at a plurality of termination points of the length of the intermediate support member.
 4. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 3, wherein the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the bottom support member comprise two flanges, wherein the two flanges are disposed at a plurality of termination points of the length of the bottom support member.
 5. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 4, wherein the first flange affixed to the vertical support member is disposed along the length of the vertical support member in an inferior position to the second flange.
 6. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 4, wherein the second flange affixed to the vertical support member is disposed along the length of the vertical support member in a superior position to the first flange.
 7. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 5, wherein the second flange affixed to the vertical support member is disposed along the length of the vertical support member in a superior position to the first flange.
 8. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 7, wherein the one or more flanges disposed along the length of the vertical support member are further affixed to a fence.
 9. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 8, wherein the fence is a wooden fence.
 10. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 9, wherein the fence is a wooden fence post.
 11. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 8, wherein the fence is a rigid post.
 12. A retractable fence stabilizer for mounting to a wooden fence for reducing the likelihood of falling over due to a wind event comprising: a vertical support member comprising a length, a first end, and a second end; an intermediate support member comprising a length, a first end, and a second end; a bottom support member comprising a length, a first end, and a second end; and a base pad; wherein, the vertical support member is secured to a fence via a top flange affixed to the first end of the vertical support member and a bottom flange affixed to the second end of the vertical support member; wherein, the bottom support member is joined to the vertical support member proximate to the second end of the vertical support member via a moveable flange, wherein the moveable flange is further joined to bottom support member via a flange disposed at the first end of the bottom support member, wherein the moveable flange and the flange form a hinged joint; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the vertical support member proximate to the first end of the vertical support member via a second moveable flange, wherein the second moveable flange is further joined to intermediate support member via a second flange disposed at the first end of the intermediate support member, wherein the second moveable flange and the second flange form a second hinged joint; wherein, the intermediate support member is joined to the bottom support member to form a third hinged joint at the second end of intermediate support member and the second end of the bottom support member; wherein, the base pad is moveably joined to the third hinged joint.
 13. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 12, further comprising an extended position wherein the first hinged joint is disposed in a position proximate to the second end of the vertical support member and wherein the base pad is secured to a surface.
 14. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 13, further comprising a collapsed position wherein the second hinged joint is disposed in a position proximate to the first end of the vertical support member and further wherein the first hinged joint is disposed in a position closer to the first end of the vertical support member than the second end of the vertical support member.
 15. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 12, wherein the base pad further comprises one or more attachments to secure the base pad to a surface.
 16. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 15, wherein the one or more attachments is a plurality of spikes.
 17. The retractable fence stabilizer of claim 15, wherein the one or more attachments is a plurality of stakes. 